Thermo-catalytic decomposition of methane: The effect of reaction parameters on process design and the utilization possibilities of the produced carbon

The study presents a path for selecting the reaction and reactor parameters of a process applying thermo-catalytic decomposition of methane (TDM). Temperature and catalyst are the main reaction parameters affecting the type of TDM carbon and defining the reaction’s theoretical heat requirement. Secondly, the reaction parameters affect the reactor design including the selection of reactor type and heating source as well as the reactor dimensioning. The reactor dimensioning is discussed by highlighting the methane residence time requirement at different reaction conditions. Finally, the economic value of the TDM products is analyzed. According to the analyses, the reaction temperature and catalyst have a significant effect on reactor design and on the value and utilization possibilities of the TDM carbon. The prices of carbon products vary greatly as does the global demand of those. The utilization possibilities of carbon highly affect the overall viability of the TDM process and therefore should be carefully considered during process design.